WELCOME
As Christmas and the end of the year draws nearer, we’re hoping you’ve all had a great few
months back at school and are excited for what the new year will bring.
While there is a great deal of joy to be found at this time of year, it can also be a difficult one.
It can be stressful with money worries, family dramas and more, this issue, we’re focussed on
the good, but also here to support you when things don’t go quite to plan. You’ll find in this issue
some advice for a smooth Christmas if you’re spending it as part of a new family, as well as
some ideas on how to be money wise, which will hopefully dispel some of that stress.
Of course, not everyone celebrates Christmas the same way, so we’ve included some fun facts
about the festive season around the world, maybe once you’ve learned about different traditions
around the world, you can implement a couple of them into your celebrations and see for
yourself the different ways families celebrate elsewhere.
Whatever your plans for this festive season, the whole Family Matters team hopes you have a
great Christmas and a very happy New Year – we’ll see you in 2019!

p7 don't get into debt this Christmas

p8 'twas the night before Christmas
p10 christmas around the world

p17 start your new year
resolutions early!

Published by Ignyte Media Ltd - email: info@ignyte-uk.co.uk call: 01761 410141
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stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher.

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VISIT FATHER
CHRISTMAS

Now open until Christmas Eve
For further information and
to book please visit:
www.whitehallgardencentre.co.uk

Book
today

Spending Christmas together
when you’re remarried
We’re told that Christmas is a time to be with family, but that
isn’t always helpful for the families of today, many of whom
have step parents/children or parents who are separated.
How do you keep everyone together without causing upset
and how do you integrate step families into your traditions? It
can be a difficult thing to negotiate, so we’ve compiled a few
tips to help the festive season go as smoothly as possible.
Firstly, before the big day, make sure you get everyone
together and talk about it, that way you can be clear on
everyone’s expectations and their usual routines and you can
come up with a compromise. Perhaps you have children who
aren’t sure whether they should split the day between you
and your ex, or maybe they have step brothers and sisters
that have recently joined the family and they’re worried
about it. You might have a whole set of in-laws you’ll need
to cater for. Whatever your new situation, it’s important to sit
down together in advance of Christmas Day to talk through
everything, that way there won’t be any nasty surprises and
you can avoid any arguments and disappointments.

slip up and forget some of the things you decided on, there
will be niggles but don’t freak out if something goes wrong.
Just let yourself go with the flow and enjoy the day.
Finally, work together to come up with a compromise so
you can create your own Christmas traditions. It won’t be
possible to do everything you did before, especially if you’re
integrating families, but see it as an opportunity to come up
with something special.

When the big day comes around, don’t heap massive
expectations on the day. Don’t expect it to be perfect.
Much of the stress from Christmas Day comes from
pressurising yourself to make it perfect, spending the
day in a new situation can be stressful enough so
don’t put extra pressure on yourself. You will forget
to get things out of the freezer on time, you will

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DON’T GET INTO DEBT
THIS CHRISTMAS
This time of year can be tough on your bank balance and we can all be tempted to rely on credit cards or loans to see us
through. It isn’t just expensive presents, it’s buying food and treats for the family, heating the house and of course, having
extra Christmas lights will take its toll on your electricity bill.
While it might be tempting to whip out the credit card to tide you over, you will need to keep in mind that interest quickly
builds up, especially if you put off payments which can lead to the debts getting away from you.
To try and avoid falling into the trap of Christmas debts, here are some tips to help you cover all the costs.

Stick to a plan

You may have already started your Christmas shopping but
make sure you have worked out a budget of how much
you need to pay your usual bills, with a little extra to cover
using extra lights and heating, plus food. Then with what
you have left over, come up with an idea of how much you
want to spend on each person and stick to it.

Set up an awards account

If you don’t already have one, ask your bank about
awards accounts. Many banks offer an awards account
where if you pay for certain items using your debit card,
you can earn cash back or discount vouchers. These
can be helpful when it comes to paying your utilities as
you’ll earn money for paying your bills which can then
be used on something else, plus if you get discounts for
high street stores, these can be put towards Christmas
presents or items throughout the year.

Use loyalty schemes where you can

Many companies offer loyalty schemes where spending
so much over the year will give you money off at
Christmas or will reward you with vouchers that you can
spend on food or gifts. If you are involved in any loyalty

schemes, make sure you reach the requirements to get
the awards as these can really help at this time of year.

Avoid going into your overdraft

If you can avoid it, stay clear of your overdraft, you will
get charged for it and that can cause more problems. If
you need to go into it, speak to your bank first and see
if they have other options for you, like a small loan or a
credit card.

HOWEVER! Credit cards and loans can cause

their own issues if payments are missed or the monthly
payments are too much. If you can keep up with them,
make sure the minimum amount at least is paid off
each month, otherwise you’ll find yourself being hit with
penalty charges. Put payment dates in your calendar or
set up direct debits so you don’t forget to pay them.

Compare credit deals

If you are going to use a credit card or loan, shop around
and compare interest rates. Some cards have a high
interest rates, but offer you discounts or interest free
periods, which might work better for you. Don’t grab the
first card you see, do your research.

If you do find yourself struggling to make ends meet at this time of year, don’t let it distract you from having a good time
with your friends and family. There are plenty of resources available to help you if you get into a sticky situation, including
advice on swapping to a better credit card deal or attending a free debt counselling session. Speak to your local Citizen's
Advice Bureau or head online to find what is available in your area.

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Why not take 10 minutes out this Christmas Eve, sit down with the kids and a mug of hot chocolate
and read this classic Christmas poem...

'Twas the
Night Before Christmas
'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my hand, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads;
And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled down for a long winter's nap,

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot;
A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

His eyes -- how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow;

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below,
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer,

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath;
He had a broad face and a little round belly,
That shook, when he laughed like a bowlful of jelly.

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name;

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself;
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread;

"Now, DASHER! now, DANCER! now, PRANCER and VIXEN!
On, COMET! on CUPID! on, DONNER and BLITZEN!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk,
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose;

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky,
So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,
With the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too.

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a
whistle, And away they all flew like the down
of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ere he
drove out of sight, HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO
ALL, AND TO ALL A GOOD-NIGHT!

8 |

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Enter now at www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

Win Prizes

WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO HAYNES
INTERNATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM
As well as being the
motoring mecca for the
diehard enthusiast, the
Haynes International Motor
Museum also takes family
fun very seriously indeed! We
appreciate that entertaining a
toddler requires just as much
thought as keeping teenagers
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The Museum entices visitors
to explore and discover
motor vehicles from around
the world providing an experience that will create lasting
memories for young and old alike that will last a lifetime.
A simply amazing day out!

Win a Beaker Creatures
Super Lab
After travelling through
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children can discover, classify, and explore 35 collectible
characters from five different families.
Children can create amazing bubbling reactions with the Liquid
Reactor Super Lab - simply drop a Beaker Creature Reactor
Pod into the chamber, pump in water with the hydroplungers
and watch the fizzing, bubbling reaction to reveal the creature
inside. RRP £25. Available from www.learningresources.co.uk

Win a family ticket to Avon Valley
Adventure and Wildlife Park

2019 marks 30 years of making memories with you all at Avon
Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park. From your first spotting of
a Fallow Deer or a Red Fox, to facing your fears and sliding
down the giant drop slides or taking part in the obstacle course
alongside the River Avon. There is just so much family fun to be
had with a visit to Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park.
For more information about our plans for 2019, or to book tickets,
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Win a Playfoam Pals Snowy Friends
Children will love opening these snowdome-themed pods of
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Playfoam, are cute animals waiting to be found! Children can
create their own customised creatures as heads and bodies
pop apart for mix and match activities as well as sculpting
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for the rare snowman, Sven! RRP: £6.00 each. Available from
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TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE OF WINNING THESE FANTASTIC PRIZES, simply visit www.familymatters-uk.co.uk, click on the Competitions
button and complete the form. It couldn’t be easier! Closing date for entries: 10th January 2019
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Christmas around

d
l
r
o
w
e
h
t
HIDING BROOMS

EATING WHALES

In Norway, Christmas Eve is
much like All Hallows Eve to
us in the UK. Evil spirits and
witches are said to rise on this
day, so to protect themselves,
families in Norway hide all
their brooms before they go
to bed.

While you might dread having sprouts
spooned onto your plate, spare a
thought for the people of Greenland.
Their Christmas delicacy, Mattak, is raw
whale skin, complete with blubber. If
that doesn’t turn your stomach, Kiviak
might. This dish is a small bird wrapped
in seal skin which is buried for several
months and then dug up and eaten
when its nicely decomposed. On second
thoughts…. I think I’ll take the sprouts.

DINING WITH YOUR DECEASED
LOVED ONES
It’s always hard at Christmas when you’ve
lost loved ones and the whole day has a
bittersweet feel to it. If you find yourself
in this situation, inject some Portugese
tradition to Christmas lunch – in Portugal,
families set extra places at the table on
Christmas day for their deceased relatives,
this is called ‘consoda’ and is said to bring
good luck for the coming year.

THE DEFECATING LOG

ROLLER SKATING
In Venezuela’s capital, it is tradition
to travel to church for an early
morning service while wearing
roller skates throughout the whole
festive period. They even close the
roads so this can be done safely.

This is a Catalonian tradition, in the
fortnight leading up to Christmas, families
carve a small grinning creature out of a
log and place it on their dining room table.
Over the next fourteen days, the log must
be fed with fruit, nuts and sweets and
then on Christmas Eve, it is beaten with
sticks until all the goodies come out.

Every family has their own traditions for this time of year, whether or not you celebrate Christmas,
there are certain routines and rituals which you find yourself doing every year. In the UK, where shops,
schools and businesses close down to allow Christmas celebrations, there are traditions we’re familiar
with, having a tree, going to Christingle, watching a Nativity, cooking and not eating Brussel sprouts.
This isn’t the norm everywhere in the world though, here are some of our favourite festive
eccentricities from around the globe...

BURNING A WOODEN GOAT
We’re all familiar with the idea of a Yule
Log, for us and our neighbours in France,
Yule Logs are typically made of chocolate
rather than being an actual log, but in
Sweden they have the Yule Goat. In Gävle,
the residents erect a giant Yule Goat and
pretty much every year since its debut,
people have tried to torch it.

SCARY BEASTS
In the UK and America, we have Santa and
his army of elf friends and reindeers, these
cute little helpers aren’t universal however.
In Germany and Austria, Father Christmas
is aided by Krampus, a hairy hooved beast
with large horns that is supposed to punish
naughty children during the Christmas
period. So kids, if you’re planning on
playing up this year, be wary if your folks
say they’re taking you on a trip to Germany.

FINDING A FIANCÉE
If you’re someone who hates Christmas
because you’re always on your own, head
to the Czech Republic. Young, single women
have their own Christmas tradition, they
stand with their backs to the front door and
toss their shoes over their shoulder, if a shoe
lands with its toe pointing towards the door
it’s said the woman will get married within
the next year.

SPIDERS ON YOUR CHRISTMAS
TREE
In the Ukraine, there aren’t baubals and
tinsel over the trees, instead trees are
covered in fake spiders and webs. This
is said to bring luck and stems from
a folk story about a poor woman who
couldn’t afford decorations and woke
on Christmas morning to find a spider
had covered it in a glittering web.

FOUR-EYED SANTA
Christmas isn’t really a thing in Japan,
but there are people there that like
to celebrate with the western world.
These people celebrate Santa Kuroshu
who has eyes in the back of his head
so he can keep an eye on naughty
children. Those of you who aren’t fans
of the traditional British Christmas
cake might want to spend the holidays
in Japan, Christmas cake there is
made of sponge, whipped cream and
strawberries!

what’s on
Now til 23rd December
Christmas Lunch at Dunster Castle
We're now taking bookings for festive lunches. So whether
it's the turkey with all the trimmings or the red lentil cottage
pie that has taken your fancy, be sure to book early to avoid
disappointment. 10am-6pm.
Now til the 22nd December
Christmas Carol Festive Fun
See Scrooges Office, make crackers, find out about Victorian
traditions and see Victorian boots on display. Free admission
but donations are welcome. The Shoe Museum, Street. From
10am.
Til the 24th December
Breakfast with Father Christmas
Father Christmas will be taking time out from his busy schedule
to meet you for a yummy cooked breakfast, served with a
Rudolph gingerbread biscuit! 8am – 10am
Every weekend in December, plus Christmas Eve. £12.95
per child. Limited availability, so please book early to avoid
disappointment.

Til the 6th January
Festive Family Trail
Help Hetty the Hedgehog get ready for her Christmas party and
get some fresh air as you follow our trail around the wintry
gardens. Open every day from 10am.
£2 per child + normal admission. No need to book.
www.hestercombe.com
Til the 13th January
A Christmas Carol at Bristol Old Vic
This delightful new adaptation of Dickens’ well-loved comedy.
So sit back in your seats and find out how selfish moneylender Ebenezer Scrooge finally comes to understand the true
meaning of Christmas. bristololdvic.org.uk

Til the 13th January
Peter Pan at Theatre Royal
Peter Pan is a swash-buckling
and unmissable Christmas treat
that’s got everything – with flying,
CGI special effects and all the
traditional ingredients that make
Bath pantomimes so special.

Til the 6th January
Ice Skating at Hestercombe
Glide about on our skate rink (it’s
artificial so you don’t get too chilly!)
in our magical winter marquee.
Perfect family fun.
www.hestercombe.com

Til the 13th January
The Scarlet Pimpernel
Expect witty wordplay, brave women, not-so-brave men,
hysterical double disguises, elaborate hoaxes, poodles aplenty
and very, very high wigs. Everything a modern day audience
could wish for in just under 2 hours of deliciousness.
The Egg Theatre, Bath.

For further information about each event

Til the 24th December
Reindeer feeding
Come and watch our Reindeer
being fed every day at 4pm at our
Lacock, Whitchurch & Woodborough
Garden Centres. From Saturday 3rd
November through until Sunday 24th
December. This is a FREE event - no
ticket required!
Whitehall Garden Centres.
www.whitehallgardencentre.co.uk
Til 31st December
Lacock's Christmas List Family Trail
On this self-led family trail, Father Christmas has lost his list
and needs your help matching the presents to who they belong
to in the woodland grounds. The trail continues on in the village
where local businesses have codes to crack which make up the
Christmas dinner shopping list. Lacock Abbey, Lacock.

13 December - 20 January 2019
Snow Mouse
Back by huge popular demand for
an incredible 4th year!
Come and join two new friends
on their adventures in a magical
forest full of play, puppetry and
music. The Egg Theatre, Bath.

15th - 31st December
Winter Trail at Dunster Castle
There's discord between two rulers and they need your help to
return their lands to peace. Follow the trail around the grounds
and solve the clues to help unite the lands of the Swan Queen
and River King. Dunster Castle, Dunster.
15 - 23 December
A Christmas Castle & Illuminated Garden Walk
See the castle's ground floor rooms decorated for Christmas
and live festive music learn about some of the Luttrell family's
traditions and play some festive games. The garden will be
illuminated for an evening stroll. Dunster Castle, Dunster.

19th - 22nd December
Supper with Santa
Would your little one love to have supper with Santa? This event
includes a buffet tea, ice cream, a funky disco and a present
from Santa! 6-8pm, Puxton Park.
21st - 31st December
Dick Whittington
Supported by a very strong cast of top quality theatre
professionals plus some fantastic local junior performers this is
a show you just won’t want to miss!
The whole Dick Whittington cast will come out after the show
to meet and greet the audience as you leave and pose for your
photos absolutely FREE of charge. The McMillan Theatre, Bath
Road, Bridgwater.

28th December - 2nd January 2019
FMTC presents Aladdin
Holiday fun for all the family. Traditional family pantomime with
live music, fantastic costumes and scenery.
NOTE: Performance times on New Year’s Eve – 11am and 4pm.
Frome Memorial Theatre, Frome.
19th January
Wassail at Glastonbury Tor
Wassailing is an ancient custom that involves drinking cider,
singing to the trees in the hope of a good harvest and scaring
away any evil spirits that might be lurking. You can tour the Tor,
sing around the trees, hear stories by the fire and sample the
fruit of last year's crop.
Booking is advisable at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/glastonburytor however on the day, entry is £3 per adult and £1 per child
(ages 5-16): please note cash only.

please visit www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

THE EGG CHRISTMAS SHOW

THURS 6 DEC – SUN 13 JAN

Co-produced by the egg and Pins & Needles Productions

THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL
Based on the book by Baroness Orczy Adapted by Christopher William Hill

AGE

Co-directed by
Emma Earle & Joe Hufton

Designed by
Zoë Squire

Music Composed by
Jack Drewry

Sound Design by
John Everett

Box Office: 01225 823409
www.theatreroyal.org.uk

6+

Sponsored by

An Edible Gift Idea
CHRISTMAS TREE CRACKERS
Make Christmas tree shaped crackers and gift them along
with a jar of homemade chutney and artisanal cheese.
INGREDIENTS
120 g porridge oats
120 g plain flour, plus extra for dusting
0.5 tsp cayenne pepper
70 g unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
1 medium free-range egg, separated, white only
1 tsp poppy seeds
1 tsp sesame seeds
1 tbsp pumpkin seeds
YOU WILL ALSO NEED:
3 Christmas tree cookie cutters
METHOD
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan 160°C, gas 4. Whiz the
porridge oats in a food processor or blender to make a coarse
flour. Tip into a large mixing bowl and stir in the plain flour
and cayenne pepper.
2. With your fingertips, rub the butter into the oat mixture until
it resembles fine crumbs. Use 3 tbsp cold water to create a
dough, then lightly knead until smooth.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out to a thickness of about
4mm. Using a small Christmas tree cutter, stamp out 16
biscuits (you’ll need to re-roll the dough).
4. Place on a lined baking tray and lightly brush all over with
the egg white. Scatter over the seeds and bake for 30 mins
until dry and crisp. Leave to cool on the tray for 5 mins, then
transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Store in an airtight container for 3-5 days.

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27/11/2018 15:22

Start thinking about those
resolutions early
We’re sure you’re bored of the New Year New You phrase already
and it’s only just coming into the winter season! But, the start of
a new year is always a great time to make a change in your life
that you’ve been gearing up to, whether it is stopping smoking,
starting a new career or finally using that gym membership that
has been gathering dust, there is no time like the start of a new
year to do it!
Research from the University of Hertfordshire suggests that only
one in ten people are able to accomplish their New Year goals
by the end of the year, but as it is widely believed that you can
form a new habit in less than a month, we think it’s possible for
everyone to achieve their goals with the right amount of support.
So – you have your resolutions for the new year – now what?
Well, start small, it’s easier to achieve something if it is broken
down into manageable chunks, so figure out how to make them
measurable and give yourself a deadline to a certain milestone.
For example, if you want to learn a new language, decide that by
March you’ll be able to read, write and speak a certain number of
sentences. That way, when it comes to March, speaking, reading
and writing in another language will be part of your routine, so
it’ll be easier to learn more sentences and by 2020, you might be
able to wander around a new country speaking the language like
a local. Or you could decide to get fit and choose to be able to run
a certain amount of miles by a set date, by the end of the year you
might be looking into winning an Olympic medal or something.
It’s also important to celebrate those mile stones and award
yourself when you’ve achieved something – it’ll make you want to

continue on to the next step and of course, everyone likes prizes!
Enlist some friends and family to support you – this is important,
while you will need to dedicate a huge amount of will power to
achieving your goals, you will need support from those around
you too. Talk to your friends and family about what it is you want
to do and ask if they’d help you to get there. You never know, they
might create flash cards to help you revise if you choose to learn
a new skill or go over interview techniques with you if you’re
looking for a new job, they could stop smoking around you if
you’re planning on giving up or come shopping with you for gym
gear. They might even be willing to be a food taster if your goal is
to learn how to cook!
Don’t give up! Failure is all part of learning. Sometimes you won’t
succeed straight away and you’ll feel frustrated at not being able
to do something, but don’t let that put you off. Stick to your goals
and think of it as a tiny set back – you’ll get there eventually! It’s
also important not to put too much pressure on yourself, that’s
just asking for trouble!
If you don’t fancy learning a new skill or taking on a physical
challenge, that’s fine too, New Year New You doesn’t have to be
about joining the gym or getting a new hobby, it can be as simple
as getting a new hair cut or treating yourself to a new beauty
regime. There are so many treatments and options available to
anyone wanting to make a change, from eyebrow threading to
a massage. Perhaps you want to stop biting your nails and want
them to look pretty during your transition – there are lots of
different options for nail extensions, paints and more!

What New Year’s Resolutions do you have in mind for 2019?
Let us know on Facebook and Twitter, you can find us at @ukfamilymatters!
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Six tips for helping with eczema
Eczema is one of the most common skin complaints, particularly among children and as the winter gets colder and dryer, eczema can
flare up, which can be uncomfortable and irritating for young children. Here are some top tips from the National Eczema Organisation
to help keep those flare ups under control.

DRESS IN LAYERS

Sweating and overheating can trigger itching and
scratching which in turn leads to irritated skin – try sending
the kids out in layers, that way they can remove clothing as
needed to stop them overheating while also having enough
to keep them warm in the changeable British weather.

Put a humidifier in the bedroom

This helps keep skin from drying out, which can stop it
becoming cracked and itchy.

Drink plenty of water

When it’s cold out, you won’t want to reach for a nice glass
of water or squash, but it is important to stay hydrated as
this can help prevent flare ups.

Keep antihistamines to hand

This is especially useful if your child’s eczema is triggered
by allergic reactions.

Moisturise regularly

Make sure to do this as often as possible during the winter
months. Make sure to do this before and after washing to
really keep the moisture locked into the skin.

Avoid wool jumpers

We know Christmas Jumper day is important, but any
clothes that make you itchy are not ideal for anyone with
irritated skin. Stick to fabrics like cotton instead.

Got any more tips for helping protect your skin during the winter months?
Let us know – you can get in touch with us on facebook.com/ukfamilymatters or twitter.com/ukfamilymatters
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Having a child with ADHD
We all know how tough parenting can be at times,
but having a child with ADHD can be demanding.
Children with ADHD are often impulsive, energetic
and lack what is referred to as ‘executive function’
which is the ability to organise and prioritise tasks,
manage time and make plans.
If you’re a parent of a child with ADHD it might
seem like your entire life is an endlessly chaotic
battle, there is rarely any respite and you can feel
alone, with other parents and family members not
understanding how difficult it can be. Plus it is
always hard when your child is labelled a ‘trouble
maker’ when they aren’t looking to cause any
disruption, they just can’t help the way they are
wired after all.

organise themselves in the same way that children
without ADHD will, it is important to create a
schedule and a routine and make sure the whole
family stick to it. This way even if your child gets
distracted, you can help them stay on track.
Secondly, you can speak to your friends and family
about ADHD and explain to them what support
you need. Being attentive to children with ADHD
is extremely tiring and you’ll need people around
to help out, if you can get a few friends or family
members to understand how demanding it is
and get them to help out, it’ll make your life a lot
easier.
If the diagnosis is recent, it can be difficult
for parents to modify the expectations they
had for their children. If you know your child
is capable of an A but because they had
trouble focussing they only got a C, don’t be
disappointed, you know they’re trying,
so be positive and celebrate their
successes.

If you have recently had a diagnosis for
your child, there are a few things you can
do at home to make things a little easier,
so here are some tips to help.
Firstly create structure, though it
will be difficult for your child to

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LATEST SCHOOL NEWS

EVENTS

DIARY DATES

YOUR SUCCESSES

News and Reviews
FOOTBALL CLUB NEEDS
MORE PLAYERS
Bitton AFC Juniors are looking to recruit players in
Year 1 and Year 2 (training on Saturdays from 9.30
am to 10.30am) and Year 4 (training on Wednesday
from 5.30pm to 6.30pm). A new girls’ is also
starting soon, so girls in Year 7 are also invited to
start training on Mondays from 6-7pm.
Email Ann Price at bittonjuniorsafc@gmail.com for
more information.

PRE-SCHOOL POPPY
TRIBUTES
The Park Neighbourhood Day Nursery in Kingswood
produced a beautiful poppy display to mark Remembrance
Day. Staff spent time talking to the children regarding the
meanings of poppies and why we have Remembrance
Day, as well as paying tribute to those who lost their
lives by decorating a cross in their memory. The children
created their own poppies using wrappers, tissue paper,
pens, pencils and more.

RAGS TO RICHES AT
HANHAM
Hanham Primary pupils and parents have raised
£170 for the school by donating their old clothes
for the Rags2Riches collection that was held at the
school. Well done everyone!

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POPPY APPEAL
ORGANISERS SPEAK AT
SCHOOL
Children at Parkwall School in Cadbury Heath took part
in a special assembly in the run-up to Remembrance
Sunday to recognise and honour those who lost their lives
in conflicts. The assembly focused on the centenary of the
end of the First World War was led by local Poppy Appeal
organiser, Graham Downing, from the Bitton and Oldland
branch of the Royal British Legion.

PRESCHOOL GETS
GLOWING REPORT
Longwell Green Pre-School has received a Good
rating from Ofsted for its first ever inspection.
The pre-school, which meets at Longwell Green
Community Centre in Shellards Road started in 2016
and currently has 28 children on the roll.
The inspectors said that staff gave children’s
personal, social and emotional development a high
priority and are very patient and secure to grow in
confidence.
The report also stated that staff knew their children
well and were able to identify steps in learning to
ensure they all made good progress.

WHITCHURCH FOOTBALLERS
BEAT PERSONAL BEST!
Whitchurch School’s football team took part in a
tournament for the English School’s Football Association
Under-11s at Clifton College Sports ground. They played
very well and beat the school’s goal scoring record!

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CHILDREN LEARN ABOUT
THE EGYPTIANS

WHITCHURCH LEARN
ABOUT FIRE SAFETY
Whitchurch School had a visit from the local fire
brigade who came to see the children in year one.
They even got to use the hose!

Years 5 and 6 at Whitchurch primary school visited Bristol
museum this term as part of their Broad Curriculum
Brought Alive initiative. The children got to handle a
necklace that was over 3000 years old and meet a real
mummy!

‘RAPID IMPROVEMENTS’
MADE AT STAPLE HILL

NEW BOOKS AND
BOOKSHELVES!
Park Primary are very proud to be only one of 70 schools
across the country to be awarded a set of 70 new books
and a specially designed bookcase! These were given by
the Wicked Young Writer Awards who have partnered with
the National Literacy Trust, Beanstalk, BookTrust, First
Story and the Roald Dahl Literary Estate to mark the 70th
birthday of their patron, Her Royal Highness, The Duchess
of Cornwall. The school were selected because of the great
work they have done to promote reading for pleasure in
the school. The pupils had a special assembly to mark
the occasion and the beautiful books will be available to
borrow from the school library.

Ofsted have said that rapid improvements are
being made at Staple Hill Primary School following
their inspection in September. They judged
effectiveness of leadership and management,
personal development behaviour and welfare and
early years provision to be good. However, both
quality of teaching, learning and assessment and
the outcomes for pupils needed to be improved.
The report also said that the recently appointed
executive headteacher, headteacher and the
restructured governing body had taken swift and
decisive action to bring about rapid improvements
and that the school was a warm and welcoming
place.

WHAT A SPECTACULAR
FIREWORKS DISPLAY!

"WE THE CURIOUS"

Saltford PTA arranged an amazing firework display
for the school and the local community. A huge
thank you went to everyone who supported this
event –the school hope you enjoyed the display.
Early indications, subject to confirmation from the
PTA Treasurer, show that the PTA made a profit of
£3850 from this event. That’s an amazing amount
and well done to all involved.

Saltford Primary Years 5 & 6 had an interesting and
informative visit to "We the Curious" in Bristol. The
children were able to take part in a variety of interactive
lectures that were relevant to the things they have been
learning about in school. They were also able to go
on the many exhibits around the centre all looking at
different aspects of Science. Some of the children were
congratulated by members of the public on their excellent
behaviour, and they all had a great day.

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SALTFORD PRIMARY
FOOTBALL ROUND UP
Girls Football - Nine girls represented the school
on Monday 12th November at the annual 7 aside
football tournament at Odd Down Sports Ground
in Bath and reached the semi-finals despite only
being formed one month ago.
Boys Football - On Monday 19th November, a team
of year 6 boys took part in an exciting football
tournament at Odd Down Sports Ground in Bath.
The team progressed to the knock out stages by
winning every match, but unfortunately conceded
a goal early on in the knock out stage which put
them out of the competition.
Well done to all the players

YEAR 6 TRIP TO BRISTOL
On Friday the 13th October, pupils from Park Primary
boarded the coach at 9:15am to make their way to Clifton
Suspension Bridge. After arriving at Clifton Suspension
Bridge, they got into groups and marched across the
bridge. Feeling excited, the children walked off of the
bridge and started to make our way to Constitution Hill,
they all trotted down the hill and it was so steep!
The pupils saw many Edwardian and Georgian built houses
on the way to Cabot Tower and they ate lunch on the top
of the hill before making their way up the 109 steps. The
children thought the views were amazing and could see
all of Bristol’s big landmarks. They then made their way to
the Harbourside, ready for a boat trip at 1pm. They went
past Bristol Cathedral, Bristol University and many other
landmarks such as We Are Curious. The driver of the boat
encouraged the children to wave to everyone and make
loads of noise when going under any bridge!

MENTAL HEALTH
AWARENESS
Miss Burrows presented an important assembly for
Key Stage 2 about Mental Health Awareness and
well-being. She talked about how important it was
for children to be kind to themselves and focus on
positive aspects of themselves. She discussed a
helpful website called www.mindyou.org.uk that
children, parents and carers can access.
At the end of the assembly all the children sang
‘This is Me’ from The Greatest Showman.

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INVASION GAMES
Year 3, from Saltford Primary School, had the opportunity
to visit Wellsway School to take part in an ‘Invasion Games’
festival. The children participated in a range of different
activities, including basketball, netball, uni-hoc and pop
lacrosse. The aim of the festival was for the children to
meet other Year 3's from the local area, for them to try
new activities and work with our Sports Leaders and
SportsAmbassadors. The children had a fantastic time and
enjoyed trying out the different sports. A huge thank you
went to Mrs Burston for organising the festival and to the
Sports Ambassadors for organising and demonstrating the
different skills to each group.

LONGWELL GREEN
GET VISIT FROM BEST
SELLING AUTHOR
Longwell Green Primary School were lucky enough
to welcome Liz Kessler, a New York Times bestselling author, to the school! Liz shared with the
children her first ever-published piece of work from
when she was 9 years old! The look of inspiration
on many of the children’s faces was wonderful.
Having had her first novel published in 2003, ‘The
Tail of Emily Windsnap’, Liz was able to talk to
the children about her 15-year journey of being a
writer. They were even let into the secret of where
the name Emily Windsnap came from! The children
then had the fantastic opportunity to buy a book
and have it signed by Liz herself! Further to all of
this excitement, Liz officially opened the school’s
library to be used by the children, in particular the
‘Starbooks’ area. Mrs Balch is currently running a
book club for children in Year 1 and 2 is hoping to
role this out across the school soon.

WHITCHURCH HOLD
CHINA DAY
Children in Year 2 at Whitchurch Primary School enjoyed
a Chinese Day where they read the Magic Brush, which is
set in China. They also did a Kahoot! (a quiz about China)
before a carousel of activities to find out more about the
country. They made Chinese dragons, tasted Chinese food,
wrote fortunes for fortune cookies and practised writing in
Mandarin.